Dear VetBabble, My Dog Has Small, Round, Rough Spots of Skin. Is It Eczema or Psoriasis? And What Can I Do?
Thank you for submitting your question! It’s great that you care about your new dog’s skin health. You mentioned that she has small, round, rough spots that don’t seem to bother her, and the shelter vet didn’t mention any concerns. You’re wondering if it could be eczema or psoriasis, and if there are any at-home treatments before seeing a veterinarian.
Let’s dive into some possible causes for these spots, and discuss some general care tips and potential treatments. We’ll be covering three main sections:
1. Understanding Your Dog’s Skin Condition
In this case, it’s possible that your dog may have developed calluses, which are common in larger breed dogs. Calluses typically form on elbows as a result of laying on hard surfaces. While eczema and psoriasis are possibilities, they are quite rare in dogs and usually exhibit different symptoms. It’s essential to accurately diagnose the issue to provide the proper care. To better understand what could be causing these spots, it may be worth reading about The Most Common Skin Conditions in Dogs.
2. At-Home Care and Remedies
Regardless of the specific cause, there are some general care tips you can provide your dog to help with her skin health. First, try offering her more comfortable sleeping arrangements, such as soft beds or blankets, to reduce the pressure on her elbows. This can help alleviate any callus formation. In case of any potential allergies that contribute to skin irritation, you might want to check out our article on Dog Allergies, which offers valuable insights on allergens and how to avoid them.
If the skin feels rough but isn’t cracked or bleeding, applying a gentle ointment such as Aquaphor can help moisturize and soften the skin. However, be sure to observe her reaction to any topical treatments and discontinue use if she has an adverse response.
3. When to See a Veterinarian
Should your dog’s skin condition worsen, with symptoms like itching, bleeding, or visible lumps and bumps, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian. They will be able to give a proper diagnosis and recommend the best course of action. For more information on when to visit a vet, take a look at our article Lumps and Bumps: When to Worry.
In conclusion, provided that your dog’s skin spots remain non-irritating and non-itchy, you can attempt to relieve the roughness with at-home remedies and improved sleeping arrangements. If your dog starts to feel uncomfortable or exhibits concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian. Lastly, do remember to check out our Simple Tips for Itchy Dogs for additional guidance on maintaining your dog’s skin health.
We hope you find this information helpful, and we wish you and your furry friend the best!
